Urgent and emergency care

Choose the right service

If someone is seriously ill or injured, call 999 or go to the Emergency Department (A&E).

There are different services available to help people who need urgent or emergency care in Torbay and South Devon.

Choosing the right service can help you get the care you need and allows emergency teams to focus on people with the most serious conditions.

If you are not sure which service you need, visit NHS 111 online or call 111.

Emergency care

Emergency care is for serious illnesses or injuries that are life-threatening or could cause permanent harm if they are not treated quickly.

Call 999 or go to your nearest Emergency Department for:

  • severe chest pain
  • signs of a stroke
  • severe breathing difficulties
  • severe bleeding
  • loss of consciousness
  • major trauma or a serious injury.

Find out more about our Emergency Department (A&E).

Urgent care

Urgent care is for people who need care today for an illness or injury that is not life-threatening.

The Urgent Treatment Centre can assess and treat a range of urgent but non-life-threatening conditions, including minor injuries such as sprains, strains, cuts, burns, bites and suspected broken bones, as well as minor illnesses including tonsillitis, ear infections and uncomplicated urinary tract infections.

The service is not able to provide ongoing management of long-term conditions, repeat prescriptions, treatment for dental problems or routine wound care and dressing changes. People who need support with a long-term condition, routine wound care and dressing changes or repeat medication should contact their GP practice. Anyone experiencing a dental problem should contact their dentist or NHS 111.

Anyone who is more than 12 weeks pregnant, or who has given birth within the last 28 days and have an urgent concern about their pregnancy or recent birth should contact the 24-hour maternity triage line on 01803 656588.

Find out more about our Minor Injuries Units and Urgent Treatment Centre.

Before you travel

Check current waiting times and service information:

If you are not sure where to go, visit NHS 111 online or call 111.